Indications
Eliquis (active ingredient: apixaban) is a prescription medication indicated for the following uses:
- Prevention of Stroke and Systemic Embolism in Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation (NVAF): Eliquis is indicated to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.
- Prophylaxis of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Following Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery: Eliquis is indicated to prevent deep vein thrombosis, which may lead to pulmonary embolism, in patients who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery.
- Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Eliquis is indicated for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis.
- Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Eliquis is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary embolism.
- Reduction in the Risk of Recurrence of DVT and PE: Eliquis is indicated to reduce the risk of recurrent deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism following initial therapy.
Eliquis belongs to a class of medications known as direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) or factor Xa inhibitors.
Uses and Dosage
Apixaban is available in the form of a tablet, which is usually taken twice a day, every twelve hours. Patients should consult with their doctor to discuss their recommended daily Apixaban dosing. After taking the oral dose, the maximum concentration of the medicine is reached in three to four hours, and its concentration decreases by 50% within twelve hours.
The dose of Eliquis (Apixaban) may vary depending on the individual patient and the medical condition for which it is being prescribed. The dosage will generally be determined by the number of doses taken per day, the time between doses, and the length of time the medication is taken. You should follow your doctor’s instructions or the directions on the label when taking this medication. The average doses of this medicine are listed below, however, you should not make any changes to your dose without first consulting with your doctor.
For Prevention of Deep Venous Thrombosis (Hip Replacement Surgery):
- Adults: 2.5 milligrams (mg) two times a day, for 35 days. The first dose should be taken 12 to 24 hours after surgery.
- Children: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
For Prevention Deep Venous Thrombosis (Knee Replacement Surgery):
- Adults: 2.5 milligrams (mg) two times a day, for 12 days. The first dose should be taken 12 to 24 hours after surgery.
- Children: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
For Prevention of Reoccurring Deep Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism:
- Adults: 2.5 milligrams (mg) two times a day, after at least 6 months of treatment for deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
- Children: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
For Prevention of Strokes and Blood Clots in Patients with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation:
- Adults: 5 milligrams (mg) two times a day.
- Adults with 2 of the following characteristics: 80 years of age and older, body weight of 60 kilograms (kg) or less, or kidney problems—2.5 mg two times a day.
- Children: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
For Treatment of Deep Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism:
- Adults: At first, 10 milligrams (mg) two times a day, for the first 7 days. Then, your doctor may give you 5 mg two times a day.
- Children: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
Side Effects
The Most Common Side Effects of Eliquis in Clinical Trials Include:
- Bruising
- Nausea
- Anemia (low red blood cell count)
- Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
- Low blood pressure, which may cause dizziness
- Minor bleeding, such as nosebleeds
- Mild allergic reaction
Eliquis Can Cause More Serious Side Effects, Including:
- Serious, potentially fatal bleeding
- Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylactic allergic reactions
- Bloody or black stools
- Coughing up blood and blood clots
- Red, pink, or brown urine
- Uncontrollable Gastrointestinal hemorrhage (bleeding)
- Vomit that resembles coffee grounds
- Thrombocytopenia (including platelet count decreases)
- Hypotension
- Epistaxis
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Incision-site hematoma
Form and Strength
Eliquis and its generic alternative form Apixaban are available at our Canadian pharmacy in the following forms and strength:
Eliquis: Film Coated Tablet
- 2.5 mg
- 5 mg
Apixaban: Tablet
- 2.5 mg
- 5 mg
Cautions
- Apixaban can trigger a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, or swelling of the hands, face, or mouth, you must seek immediate medical attention, contact your doctor immediately.
- You may need to stop using this medicine for several days before having surgery, including dental procedures. However, you should not suddenly stop using this medicine without asking your doctor. You might have a higher risk of stroke after you stop using this medicine.
- Patients taking Apixaban may be more prone to bleeding and bruising than normal, so it is important to practice caution and avoid activities that may lead to injuries. Additionally, it is best to avoid picking the nose, and if you need to blow your nose, do so gently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What to avoid when taking apixaban?
Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen while you're taking apixaban unless a doctor has said it's OK. They increase the chance of bleeding.
What fruits to avoid with apixaban?
Apixaban thins the blood and dissolves blood clots, so you should avoid foods rich in vitamin K to let apixaban do its job. These foods include Brussels sprouts, spinach, green tea, cranberry juice and grapefruit juice.
Why do doctors prefer Eliquis?
Many doctors are more commonly prescribing factor Xa inhibitors such as Eliquis. Because there is no INR monitoring, the dosage generally does not require adjustments.
Why is Eliquis so expensive?
Eliquis is expensive due to patent protection, high research and development costs, limited competition, and significant marketing and distribution expenses.
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